Top 10 Affordable Convertibles for 2008

What we thinkNearly single-handedly responsible for the resurrection of the cheap, fun-to-drive convertible in America, the Mazda MX-5 Miata is a solid choice in every category. The little roadster has grown up in 2008 with an available retractable hard top to seal out road noise when you aren’t working on your tan. Of course, the two-seater still retains enough of its youthful high jinks to bring out the teenager in anyone.

What we thinkThe Mini Cooper is a vehicle with a heritage of driving fun to protect. The 2008 convertible version is available in standard or S trim, with the latter toting a giggle-producing supercharger under the hood. The Mini is capable of hauling you and three of your friends around, making it a practical choice over any of the roadsters out there.

What we thinkThough it’s the most costly of all of the convertibles on the list, the Eos has a list of standard features that put the other cars to shame. From headlights that turn toward the way you’re steering to heated windshield washer nozzles, the Eos is by far the most comfortable affordable convertible. It even has rain-sensing windshield wipers. We’re not kidding. Bang for your buck, this VW is where it’s at.

What we thinkThis little drop top comes in under $20,000, making it the financially least painful convertible of the group. Though its lackluster fuel economy may offset the initial savings, for die-hard PT fans, the car’s love it or leave it looks can trump any environmental setbacks. Available with a capable 150 horsepower 2.4-liter or a torquey 180 horsepower turbo version, this car’s fun doesn’t stop when the top goes down.

What we thinkThe Solstice represents a new page in domestic engineering. Cheap, fun and stylish, this roadster is as easy on the wallet as it is on the eyes. The car isn’t hurting in the power department either. Available with a naturally aspirated 2.4-liter four cylinder with a respectable 173 horsepower, you can opt for a turbocharged 2.0-liter with a robust 260 ponies if you’re willing to shell out the dough.

What we thinkLike the Mini, the New Beetle brings a smile to our faces by cashing in on retro-cool charisma. Aside from all of the fun stuff this car brings to the table, there’s a healthy helping of features that will keep you safe in the event of an accident. Automatic rollover protection and the company’s anti-intrusion side door beams are just part of a package that keeps you looking good and riding safe.

What we thinkWith lines that look like they were carved from a drop of water, the 2008 Eclipse looks good. Available in two trims, one sporting a four-cylinder engine and the other, the GT, boasting a more powerful V-6, the car offers potential owners an array of options to personalize the car straight from the factory.

What we thinkThe Mustang’s ancestry is largely responsible for America’s fascination with the convertible. The 2008 model carries the same muscular lines as its coupe counterpart, and the optional 4.6-liter V-8 gives this car the ponies to make it a true muscle car. Be prepared to pay more both in initial cost and fuel economy for those extra cylinders, though.

What we thinkIf you’re thinking you’ve seen this car before, you’re right. The Sky share’s most of its skin with the Pontiac Solstice, with the exception of a front fascia that takes the car farther from the Solstice’s bigger brother, the GTO. The Saturn offers a number of customizing options that the Solstice does not, even if their beating hearts are the same.

What we thinkMore mature than the other drop top candidates out there, the Chrysler Sebring is the professional’s affordable convertible. The interior is accented with brushed aluminum and wood accents, bringing a little more class to the ride. The trunk is sizeable too, large enough for two golf bags or travel luggage—a rarity in this line of cars.